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Capacity Assessment is the formal
assessment of a person's mental capacity to make decisions
about property and personal care. Many situations require
capacity assessments to be conducted by specially qualified
assessors who must follow specific guidelines.

This page contains information and resources for assessors
as well as those who are requesting a capacity assessment.

I'm concerned about someone's well-being. What do I do?

If it appears that a person is mentally incapable and at
serious risk of harm, the OPGT will conduct an investigation if
no alternative solution can be found.

It is important to note that this is not an immediate,
emergency crisis response service. If you are in a
crisis or can't wait for an appointment, go to the emergency
department of a nearby hospital. The OPGT has no authority to
make decisions for the person during an investigation or while
the matter is before the courts.

I need to request an assessment

Start here for general information about the capacity
assessment process

Step 2: Contact an Assessor directly

A list of assessors (by location) can be obtained from the
Capacity Assessment Office by calling 416-327-6766 or toll-free at 1-866-521-1033.
The request for a list of assessors can also be faxed to 416-327-6724 or write to:
Capacity Assessment Office
Suite 800
595 Bay Street
Toronto, ON
M5G 2M6

For information about arranging a capacity assessment,
applying for financial assistance if you cannot pay the full
cost of an assessment, or enquiring about assessors, call:
416–327–6766 or
1–866–521–1033

I want to contest an assessment

A
person who has been assessed as incapable has the right to have
the assessment independently reviewed by the Consent
and Capacity Board, a tribunal operated by the Ministry of
Health.

For more information, go to: www.ccboard.on.ca or
call the Ministry of Health Info-Line at
1–800–461–2036

The OPGT has a duty to arrange legal representation for persons alleged to be incapable in proceedings before the Superior Court of Justice under the Substitute Decisions Act, 1992 where so ordered by the Court.

Legal Aid Ontario has a duty to arrange legal representation for persons alleged to be incapable in proceedings under the Health Care Consent Act, 1996 before the Consent and Capacity Board where so ordered by the Board. Information about Legal Aid Ontario can be obtained from their website.